Risk of Substance Abuse 2-3 Times Higher in ADHD Kids

According to a study by UCLA psychologists and colleagues at the University of South Carolina, children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two to three times more likely than children without the disorder to develop serious substance abuse problems in adolescence and adulthood.

"This greater risk for children with ADHD applies to boys and girls, it applies across race and ethnicity - the findings were very consistent," said Steve S. Lee, a UCLA assistant professor of psychology and lead author of the study.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder-Causes-Symptoms-Diagnosis-Treatment-FAQ
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological disorder that affects normal behavior and impairs the ability to concentrate.

"The greater risk for developing significant substance problems in adolescence and adulthood applies across substances, including nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine and other drugs."

Lee and his colleagues analyzed 27 long-term studies that followed approximately 4,100 children with ADHD and 6,800 children without the disorder into adolescence and young adulthood - in some cases for more than 10 years. These carefully designed, rigorous and lengthy studies, Lee said, are the "gold standard" in the field.

The researchers combined all the published studies that met rigorous criteria and analyzed them together. They found that children with ADHD were at greater risk for serious problems such as addiction, abuse and trying to quit but being unable to, Lee said.

Diet Restrictions may Offer ADHD Clue
A group of Dutch researchers have suggested that people suffering from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) should be made to undergo restricted diet

The study has been published online in the journal Clinical Psychology Review.

Source-ANI

Adult ADHD Boost Dementia Risk
In a new study it has been found that adults who suffer from attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to develop dementia.

Brain Scans Reveal Why Children with ADHD Have Difficulty in Concentrating
Scientists studying brain scans have shown for the first time why children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have difficulty in concentrating.